I’m nowhere near where I needed to be. I am not digging enough. I’m not learning enough. Learning opportunities are not landing on my lap.

I have to go out on my own and learn SQL Server on my own time and resources.

This blog was never meant to become an outlet of my frustrations about not getting to that next level. I’m supposed to be focusing on acquiring real-world skills, and not whining about why I am not hitting my career target.

Today, there is no more next level.

I need to just stop looking for that next level and just focus on learning and acquiring new skills.

I’ve been learning – by reading blogs, watching videos, and subscribing to hardcore online training. But I don’t have the kind of job that would allow me to practice.

I remember what Sean McCown (Blog | @MidnightDBA) said in the DBA Roadmap seminar: “If you want to become a SQL Server DBA, there’s no excuse for not knowing stuff about SQL Server (not the exact words he said, but it’s something to that effect).”

I am renewing my commitment to learning more about SQL Server. No more excuses. No more drama.

The Intel Core i7-3720QM Ivy Bridge processor in the W530 allows me to practice most of SQL Server features that demand some computing power. I will dig into Clustering, Replication, and all other High Availability features.

Of course, one of the primary reasons why I decided to shell out some money on a good machine is SQL Server 2012. I can now build SQL Server 2012 AlwaysOn Availability Groups on my own lab!

The 16GB DDR3 RAM that I have in this machine is the amount of memory that will allow me to build multiple Virtual Machines. I am looking at having 5-7 Virtual Machines to form my personal SQL Server Sandbox. More on this in the upcoming posts.

I have more wishlist for my ThinkPad W530 – SSD’s on the Primary Bay and Ultrabay, Maximizing the 32GB RAM capacity, and a better Wireless Network Card. I just don’t have the extra dollars to make those upgrade now.

Focus More On Hardcore Training

I have had Pluralsight for a month now. I was on slow pace in the first month. Having this ThinkPad W530 on my hand builds momentum. I should now take advantage of this momentum and continue to fuel my passion for SQL Server.

I should now switch to doing-mode – practicing more and more on my skills.

Laying The Foundation

I’m changing my mindset from now on. I should totally forget about “getting to the next level.” If an opportunity comes my way, I’ll be glad to take it. But that is not my focus now.

I should start laying the foundation of my career as a SQL Server Professional. That sounds like I’m starting from square one. If that’s what it takes, then Yes. I’m starting all over. And I am making sure that I have the right, strong foundation this time.